Kylian Mbappe Pays Emotional Tribute to David Alaba as Real Madrid Defender Confirmed to Leave

David Alaba’s four-year stint at Real Madrid is drawing to a close, with the club reportedly deciding against renewing the Austrian international’s contract at the end of the current season. The centre-back had arrived at the Santiago Bernabéu from Bayern Munich in 2021 and swiftly made an impact in Spain, contributing to the club’s success across multiple competitions, including UEFA Champions League and La Liga title wins.

Following confirmation of Alaba’s impending exit, his teammate Kylian Mbappe took to Instagram to share a personal tribute to the 33-year-old defender. The French forward described Alaba as one of his closest companions in football and acknowledged the role the Austrian played in helping him adapt to life at Madrid after his own arrival at the club.

“My brother, it’s such a difficult moment to close this chapter with you,” Mbappe wrote in his Instagram post. The tribute did not stop there, with Mbappe also reflecting on the evolution of their relationship — from European adversaries to trusted teammates and, ultimately, close friends.

“You’re a great player and an even better person. You used to be a great rival, then you became one of my best teammates here, and now I can say that you’re a friend that soccer has given me,” Mbappe added.

Alaba’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter at the Bernabéu. The versatile defender, who can operate at centre-back or left-back, was one of Real Madrid’s most decorated signings of recent years, arriving on a free transfer after his contract at Bayern Munich expired. His trophy haul in Germany was equally impressive, having won the Bundesliga on multiple occasions and lifting the UEFA Champions League with Bayern in 2020.

However, Alaba’s time in Madrid was not without hardship. The defender suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in December 2023, which ruled him out for an extended period and limited his contributions during a crucial phase of the club’s recent campaigns. His return to fitness came after a lengthy rehabilitation process, and questions over his contract renewal have surrounded the club for several months, according to reports.

Mbappe, meanwhile, wrapped up the La Liga season in prominent fashion, securing the Golden Boot award on the final matchday. His public message to Alaba underscores the personal bonds formed within the Real Madrid dressing room, even as the squad prepares for a period of transition heading into the 2026-27 season.

Alaba has not yet publicly confirmed his next destination, and no official club announcement regarding his future plans has been made at the time of writing. Given his standing in European football and his extensive experience at the highest level, sources suggest several clubs could be interested in the Austrian captain.